Introduction
Kerala's extensive railway network, operated by Indian Railways under the Southern Railway zone, connects the state's major cities, tourist destinations, and remote areas through an efficient and scenic rail system. With numerous railway stations spread across the state, understanding Kerala's rail infrastructure helps travelers plan convenient, economical journeys while experiencing the state's beautiful landscapes from comfortable train compartments.
This comprehensive guide covers Kerala's major railway stations, train connectivity, popular routes, booking procedures, station facilities, and practical travel tips to help you navigate Kerala's railway system efficiently. Whether you're planning intercity travel within Kerala or arriving from other Indian states, this guide ensures smooth rail journeys throughout God's Own Country.
Overview of Kerala's Railway Network
Kerala's railway system comprises over 200 stations spanning approximately 1,200 kilometers of track along two main corridors - the coastal line connecting north to south, and inland branches reaching hill stations and interior towns. The railway network plays a crucial role in both passenger transport and freight movement, particularly for Kerala's agricultural and industrial products.
Key Statistics
- Total Railway Stations: Over 200 stations across Kerala
- Major Divisions: Thiruvananthapuram, Palakkad (Southern Railway zone)
- Main Railway Line: Coastal line from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram
- Electrification: Fully electrified network
- Daily Trains: Over 200 trains serving Kerala stations
- Gauge: Broad gauge (1,676 mm) throughout
Major Railway Stations in Kerala
1. Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station (TVC)
Kerala's capital city railway station and one of the busiest in the state, Thiruvananthapuram Central serves as the southern gateway to Kerala with excellent connectivity to major Indian cities.
Station Code: TVC
Category: NSG-2 (Next Generation Station - Grade 2)
Location: Thampanoor, Thiruvananthapuram city center
Major Trains Originating/Terminating:
- Rajdhani Express (to New Delhi)
- Trivandrum Duronto Express (to New Delhi)
- Kerala Express (to New Delhi)
- Parasuram Express (to Mangalore)
- Sabari Express (to Nizamuddin)
- Tamil Nadu Express (to Chennai)
Key Facilities:
- Computerized reservation counters
- Retiring rooms and dormitories
- Multiple waiting rooms (general, AC)
- Food courts and restaurants
- Bookstalls and shops
- ATMs and banking facilities
- WiFi connectivity
- Wheelchair accessibility
Connectivity:
- To Airport: Trivandrum International Airport 6 km (15 minutes)
- To Kovalam Beach: 16 km (30 minutes by taxi/bus)
- City Transport: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, city buses
2. Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station (ERS)
Serving Kochi, Kerala's commercial capital, Ernakulam Junction is the state's busiest railway station with the highest passenger traffic and train frequency.
Station Code: ERS
Category: NSG-3 (highest category station in Kerala)
Location: Ernakulam, Kochi
Significance: Junction station with multiple train routes; serves as the primary gateway to Kerala for passengers from northern and eastern India.
Major Trains:
- Ernakulam Duronto Express (to Hazrat Nizamuddin)
- Netravati Express (to Lokmanya Tilak Terminus, Mumbai)
- Intercity Express trains to Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore
- Numerous Kerala Mail and Express services
- Jan Shatabdi Express (multiple destinations)
Station Facilities:
- Extensive retiring rooms facility
- Multiple food courts and branded restaurants
- Executive lounges
- Large waiting halls (AC and non-AC)
- Bookshops, pharmacies, convenience stores
- Cloak room facilities
- Tourist information counter
- Free WiFi service
Nearby Stations:
- Ernakulam Town (ERN) - 3 km away, serves some trains
- Ernakulam Marshalling Yard (EZP) - freight operations
3. Kozhikode Railway Station (CLT)
Serving Calicut city in northern Kerala, Kozhikode station connects Malabar region with rest of India and serves as an important junction on the coastal railway line.
Station Code: CLT
Category: NSG-2
Location: Kozhikode city center
Historical Significance: One of Kerala's oldest railway stations, reflecting colonial architecture
Important Trains:
- Mangala Lakshadweep Express (to Hazrat Nizamuddin, Delhi)
- Malabar Express (to Chennai)
- Parasuram Express (to Thiruvananthapuram)
- Intercity Express services to Bangalore, Coimbatore
- Local trains to Kannur, Kasaragod
Facilities:
- Modern waiting lounges
- Retiring rooms
- Food plaza with multiple options
- Book stalls and gift shops
- ATMs
- WiFi facility
Accessibility:
- To Airport: Calicut International Airport 28 km (40 minutes)
- To Wayanad: 90 km by road (2.5 hours)
4. Thrissur Railway Station (TCR)
Thrissur, Kerala's cultural capital, has a busy railway station serving the central Kerala region with good connectivity to major cities.
Station Code: TCR
Location: Thrissur city, central Kerala
Major Services:
- Kerala Express
- Jan Shatabdi Express
- Intercity Express trains
- Multiple passenger trains
- Connections to Guruvayur (nearby pilgrimage center)
Importance: Strategic location makes it convenient for visiting Athirappilly waterfalls, Guruvayur temple, and central Kerala attractions
5. Kannur Railway Station (CAN)
Serving northern Kerala's Kannur district, this station provides connectivity to Bekal beaches, Wayanad hill station, and Coorg across the Karnataka border.
Station Code: CAN
Location: Kannur city, northern Kerala
Key Trains:
- Mangala Lakshadweep Express
- Malabar Express
- Parasuram Express
- Local passenger trains
Tourist Access:
- To Bekal Fort: 65 km (1.5 hours)
- To Kannur International Airport: 28 km (40 minutes)
6. Kollam Junction (QLN)
An important junction connecting Kerala's coastal belt with Tamil Nadu and serving as gateway to Kollam's backwaters and Ashtamudi Lake.
Station Code: QLN
Location: Kollam city, southern Kerala
Significance: Junction point where coastal line meets inland routes to Tamil Nadu
Major Connections:
- Express trains to Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi
- Local trains to Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam
- Connections to Punalur, Sengottai (Tamilnadu)
7. Palakkad Junction (PGT)
Strategic junction station connecting Kerala with Tamil Nadu through Palakkad Gap, the only major break in the Western Ghats mountain range.
Station Code: PGT
Location: Palakkad town, eastern Kerala
Strategic Importance: Gateway between Kerala and Tamil Nadu; junction for trains entering Kerala from Coimbatore
Major Routes:
- Trains to Coimbatore (45 km)
- Services to Bangalore, Chennai
- Kerala coastal line connections
- Shoranur Junction nearby (major junction)
8. Kottayam Railway Station (KTYM)
Serving central Kerala's Kottayam district, this station provides access to backwater destinations like Kumarakom and hill stations like Munnar.
Station Code: KTYM
Location: Kottayam town
Tourist Gateway:
- To Kumarakom: 13 km (backwater destination)
- To Munnar: 140 km (hill station)
- To Thekkady: 114 km (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)
Train Services: Express trains to major cities, passenger trains along coastal route
9. Alappuzha Railway Station (ALLP)
Gateway to Alleppey's famous backwaters and houseboat experiences, this station serves the Venice of the East.
Station Code: ALLP
Location: Alappuzha (Alleppey) town
Backwater Access:
- Walking distance to boat jetties
- Houseboat booking centers nearby
- Access to Alleppey Beach
10. Kasaragod Railway Station (KGQ)
Northernmost railway station in Kerala, serving as the gateway to Bekal beaches and border town to Karnataka.
Station Code: KGQ
Location: Kasaragod town, northern Kerala
Tourist Destinations:
- Bekal Fort: 16 km
- Bekal Beach: Nearby
- To Coorg: Approximately 100 km
Railway Station Categories in Kerala
NSG (Next Generation Stations)
Indian Railways' modernization program has upgraded select Kerala stations:
- NSG-3: Ernakulam Junction (highest category)
- NSG-2: Thiruvananthapuram Central, Kozhikode
- Features: Modern amenities, improved passenger facilities, enhanced safety, WiFi, cleanliness standards
Station Classification by Importance
- A1 Category: Thiruvananthapuram Central, Ernakulam Junction
- A Category: Kozhikode, Kollam Junction, Thrissur
- B Category: Kottayam, Palakkad, Kannur
- C, D, E Categories: Smaller stations with limited facilities
Major Train Routes Through Kerala
Coastal Route (Main Line)
Route: Kasaragod → Kannur → Kozhikode → Thrissur → Ernakulam → Alappuzha → Kollam → Thiruvananthapuram
Distance: Approximately 570 km
Trains: Most express and passenger trains follow this scenic coastal route
Journey Time: 8-10 hours end-to-end (express trains)
Inland Routes
Kollam - Sengottai Line: Connects Kerala with Tamil Nadu through ghats
Shoranur - Mangalore Line: Northern Kerala connectivity
Ernakulam - Kottayam - Kollam: Alternative inland route
Popular Long-Distance Trains from Kerala
To Delhi/North India
- Rajdhani Express (12431/12432): Thiruvananthapuram - New Delhi (fastest, premium service)
- Kerala Express (12625/12626): Thiruvananthapuram - New Delhi (popular, economical)
- Duronto Express: Both Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam to Delhi
- Mangala Lakshadweep (12617/12618): Ernakulam - Hazrat Nizamuddin
To Mumbai/Western India
- Netravati Express (16345/16346): Thiruvananthapuram - Mumbai LTT
- Mumbai Express (16311/16312): Ernakulam - Mumbai CST
To Bangalore/Karnataka
- Intercity Express: Multiple daily services from major Kerala stations
- Jan Shatabdi Express: Day train with chair car
- Passenger Trains: Economical overnight options
To Chennai/Tamil Nadu
- Chennai Mail: Daily service from multiple Kerala stations
- Tamil Nadu Express: Thiruvananthapuram - Chennai
- Intercity Services: Frequent connections
Booking Train Tickets in Kerala
Online Booking
IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation):
- Official website: www.irctc.co.in
- Mobile app: IRCTC Rail Connect
- Advance booking: 120 days before journey
- Payment options: Credit/debit cards, net banking, UPI, wallets
- E-tickets: Download and carry on phone or printout
Station Booking Counters
- Computerized reservation counters at all major stations
- Tatkal booking: One day advance (charges apply)
- Current booking: Same-day unreserved tickets
- Senior citizen, divyang counters available
Travel Agents
- Authorized IRCTC agents available in cities
- Convenient for those without internet access
- Service charges apply
Booking Tips
- Book well in advance during peak season (December-January)
- Check train schedules before planning Kerala tour itineraries
- Consider waiting list chances for popular trains
- Use flexible dates for better availability
- Morning trains less crowded than evening departures
Train Classes and Fare Structure
AC Classes
- 1AC (First AC): Most expensive, 4-berth cabins, premium service
- 2AC (Two-tier AC): 4-berth bays, curtains for privacy, comfortable
- 3AC (Three-tier AC): Most popular AC class, 6-berth bays, economical AC option
- AC Chair Car (CC): Day trains, reclining seats, no berths
Non-AC Classes
- Sleeper (SL): Non-AC sleeping berths, most economical reserved class
- Second Sitting (2S): Reserved seats, day trains
- Unreserved (UR): General compartment, no seat guarantee, cheapest
Premium Trains
- Rajdhani Express: All AC, meals included, fastest service
- Shatabdi/Jan Shatabdi: Day trains, AC chair car, meals included
- Duronto Express: Non-stop trains, faster travel times
Station Facilities and Amenities
Waiting Facilities
- General Waiting Room: Available at all stations
- Ladies Waiting Room: Separate waiting area for female passengers
- AC Waiting Room: Premium waiting area (charges apply at some stations)
- Upper Class Waiting Room: For first/second AC ticket holders
Retiring Rooms
- Available at major stations (Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kozhikode)
- AC and non-AC rooms
- Dormitory beds available
- Advance booking recommended
- Economical accommodation for transit passengers
Food and Beverages
- Railway Catering: Pantry car service in select trains
- Station Food Plazas: Multiple restaurants and fast food outlets
- Vendors: Licensed food vendors on platforms
- IRCTC E-Catering: Order food online, delivered to seat
- Local Specialties: Kerala snacks like banana chips, mixture available
Other Facilities
- WiFi: Free internet at major stations
- Cloak Rooms: Left luggage facility (charges per item per day)
- ATMs: Banking facilities at major stations
- Bookstalls: Newspapers, magazines, travel guides
- Medical Facilities: First aid centers at major stations
- Porters: Licensed coolies for luggage assistance (fixed rates)
- Wheelchair Service: Free wheelchair assistance for differently-abled passengers
Safety and Security at Railway Stations
Railway Protection Force (RPF)
- 24/7 security presence at all stations
- Dedicated women's safety helpline: 182
- CCTV surveillance at major stations
- Emergency contact: 139 (Railway Security Helpline)
Safety Tips for Travelers
- Keep valuables secure; use chain for luggage
- Don't accept food/drinks from strangers
- Be aware of luggage at all times
- Use official porters with licenses
- Avoid traveling with large amounts of cash
- Keep emergency contacts handy
- Women travelers: Use ladies compartment when available
- Report suspicious activity to RPF immediately
Digital Services and Technology
Mobile Apps
- IRCTC Rail Connect: Official booking app
- UTS Mobile: Unreserved ticketing app
- IRCTC eCatering: Food ordering on trains
- National Train Enquiry System (NTES): Live train tracking
- Ask Disha: AI chatbot for railway queries
Digital Amenities
- Free WiFi at 100+ stations across India (including major Kerala stations)
- QR code-based ticketing
- Digital payment options everywhere
- Electronic display boards with real-time updates
- SMS alerts for PNR status and platform changes
Connecting Railway Stations to Tourist Destinations
From Ernakulam Junction
- To Munnar: 140 km by road (4 hours) - hire taxi or take bus
- To Alleppey: 64 km (1.5 hours) - local trains or road transport
- To Thekkady: 140 km (4-4.5 hours) - road journey
- To Kochi Attractions: Fort Kochi, Marine Drive, Mattancherry - local transport
From Thiruvananthapuram Central
- To Kovalam: 16 km (30 minutes) - taxi/bus
- To Varkala: 41 km (1 hour) - train to Varkala Sivagiri station or bus
- To Ponmudi: 61 km (2 hours) - road journey
From Kozhikode
- To Wayanad: 90 km (2.5 hours) - road journey through ghats
- To Bekal: 110 km (2.5 hours) - train to Kasaragod, then taxi
From Kottayam
- To Kumarakom: 13 km (30 minutes) - auto-rickshaw/taxi
- To Munnar: 140 km (4 hours) - taxi or bus
- To Thekkady: 114 km (3 hours) - road transport
Scenic Train Journeys in Kerala
Coastal Route: Thiruvananthapuram to Kasaragod
The main coastal line offers spectacular views of Kerala's coastline, backwaters, and lush greenery throughout the 570-km journey.
Highlights:
- Views of Vembanad Lake near Alappuzha
- Coastal views near Kozhikode
- Paddy fields and coconut groves throughout
- Bridges over backwater canals
- Sunset views over Arabian Sea (westward journey)
Kollam to Sengottai (Across the Ghats)
This 76-km mountain railway passes through Western Ghats offering stunning scenery.
Features:
- Climb through forest-covered mountains
- Tunnels and bridges
- Views of valleys and waterfalls
- Elevation gain from sea level to mountains
- Passes through Tenmala and Aryankavu
Accessibility and Facilities for Differently-Abled Passengers
Station Accessibility
- Ramps and elevators at major stations
- Wheelchair-accessible platforms
- Accessible toilets
- Braille signage at important locations
- Audio announcements for visually impaired
Booking Concessions
- Lower berth preference for senior citizens and divyang passengers
- Companion concession for escorts of differently-abled passengers
- Separate booking counters
- Online concession certificates
On-Train Facilities
- Reserved wheelchair space in some trains
- Assistance from TTE (Traveling Ticket Examiner)
- Priority for lower berths
Environmental Initiatives at Kerala Railway Stations
Green Stations
- Solar panels installed at major stations
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
- Rainwater harvesting systems
- Waste segregation and recycling
- Plastic-free zones
Clean Station Campaign
- Regular cleanliness drives
- Clean toilet facilities
- Waste disposal bins throughout platforms
- Professional cleaning staff
Future Railway Projects in Kerala
High-Speed Rail Corridor
- Proposed Thiruvananthapuram-Kasaragod semi-high-speed corridor
- Expected to reduce travel time significantly
- Planning and survey stages underway
Station Modernization
- Ongoing upgrades under NSG program
- Platform extensions at busy stations
- Better passenger amenities
- Improved connectivity to city transport
New Railway Lines
- Doubling of existing single-line sections
- New connections to remote areas
- Hill railway proposals for tourist destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the main railway station in Kerala?
Ernakulam Junction (South) is Kerala's busiest and most important railway station, with the highest train frequency and passenger traffic. However, Thiruvananthapuram Central is also a major terminus station. Both are NSG (Next Generation Station) category stations serving as primary gateways to Kerala from different parts of India.
How many railway stations are there in Kerala?
Kerala has over 200 railway stations across the state, ranging from major junction stations like Ernakulam Junction and Thiruvananthapuram Central to small halt stations. The main coastal railway line alone has approximately 80-90 stations connecting Kasaragod in the north to Thiruvananthapuram in the south.
Which train is best from Delhi to Kerala?
The Rajdhani Express (12431/12432) is the best and fastest train from Delhi to Thiruvananthapuram, taking approximately 42-44 hours with premium AC service and meals included. Kerala Express (12625/12626) is the most popular economical option. Duronto Express trains from both Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram offer non-stop fast service to Delhi.
Can I travel within Kerala by train?
Yes, Kerala has excellent intra-state train connectivity along the coastal line connecting all major cities from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram. Express trains, passenger trains, and MEMUs (Mainline Electric Multiple Units) provide frequent service between Kerala stations. Journey times range from 1-2 hours between nearby cities to 8-10 hours for full state traversal.
How do I reach Munnar from railway station?
Munnar has no railway station. The nearest railway stations are Ernakulam Junction (130 km, 4 hours) and Kottayam (140 km, 4 hours). From these stations, hire a taxi (₹3,000-4,000) or take KSRTC buses to Munnar. Many Kerala tour packages include railway station pickup and transport to Munnar.
Are Kerala trains safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Kerala trains are generally safe for solo female travelers. Most trains have dedicated ladies compartments offering additional security. Major stations have ladies waiting rooms and separate ticket counters. Railway Protection Force maintains 24/7 security, and emergency helpline 182 specifically assists women in distress. However, exercise normal travel precautions and stay aware of surroundings.
Do I need to print train tickets or can I show on mobile?
For IRCTC e-tickets, you can show the ticket on your mobile phone - no printout required. The Traveling Ticket Examiner (TTE) will verify using your PNR number and photo ID. However, keep your ID proof (Aadhaar, Driving License, Passport) ready for verification. For peace of mind, many travelers keep a printout as backup in case of phone battery or technical issues.
What is the cost of train travel in Kerala?
Train fares vary by class and distance. For example, Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam (approximately 220 km): Sleeper Class ₹120-150, 3AC ₹350-450, 2AC ₹550-700, 1AC ₹1,200-1,500. Rajdhani and premium trains cost more. Children under 5 travel free, 5-12 years pay half fare. Senior citizens get 40% discount (males 60+, females 58+).
Can I order food on trains in Kerala?
Yes, you can order food on trains through IRCTC e-Catering app or website. Enter your PNR number and delivery station, choose from various restaurants, and food will be delivered to your seat at the selected station. Many premium trains have pantry cars serving meals. Additionally, authorized vendors sell food at major stations during stops.
How early should I reach the railway station before train departure?
For general trains, arriving 30 minutes before departure is sufficient for finding your coach and settling in. For first-time travelers or during peak season, arrive 45-60 minutes early. If you have heavy luggage or need porter assistance, add extra time. For unreserved travel, arrive earlier (1-2 hours) to secure seats. Always check platform numbers on station display boards upon arrival.
What happens if I miss my train in Kerala?
If you miss your train, your ticket becomes invalid and cannot be used for another train. For reserved tickets, you may be eligible for refund (with deductions) if you cancel within stipulated time. Some travelers try boarding next available train in same class with TTE's permission (subject to availability and surcharge). For confirmed tickets, consider travel insurance that covers missed trains.
Are there direct trains from Kerala to Goa?
Yes, several trains connect Kerala and Goa. The Netravati Express connects Thiruvananthapuram to Margao (Goa) via Ernakulam and other Kerala stations. Mangalore Mail also serves this route. Journey time is approximately 12-15 hours from Thiruvananthapuram to Goa. Book well in advance during peak tourist season (November-February) as these trains are popular.
Conclusion
Kerala's extensive railway network provides an efficient, economical, and scenic way to explore God's Own Country. From the bustling terminus at Thiruvananthapuram Central to the efficient junction at Ernakulam, from the historic Kozhikode station to smaller stations dotting the coastal route, Kerala's railway system connects travelers with the state's diverse attractions while offering glimpses of its natural beauty.
Understanding Kerala's major railway stations, train routes, booking procedures, and facilities helps travelers plan seamless journeys whether arriving from other Indian states or traveling within Kerala. The scenic coastal route, passing through coconut groves, backwaters, and seaside towns, transforms train travel from mere transportation to an enjoyable experience in itself.
Modern amenities like online booking, e-tickets, station WiFi, and digital services have made train travel increasingly convenient while maintaining the affordable pricing that makes railways India's people's transport. Whether you're a budget backpacker, family vacationer, or comfortable traveler, Kerala's trains offer suitable options across all classes and price points.
As Kerala Railways continues modernizing through NSG initiatives, high-speed rail projects, and enhanced passenger facilities, train travel in the state promises to become even more efficient and comfortable while retaining the charm and authenticity that make Indian rail journeys memorable.
Planning your Kerala journey by train? Combine your rail travel with comprehensive Kerala exploration through expertly planned itineraries from Kerala Tour India, including railway station transfers, accommodation, and seamless connections to all major tourist destinations across the state.
